Living in the fake news era, the internet has irreparably become a chamber of rumors – especially for health matters – and you may struggle to separate fact from fiction. You have probably heard a few things about zinc in denture adhesive or the risks of getting too much zinc and you’re probably wondering whether it’s safe or not.
The good news is that the amount of zinc in your denture adhesive is very low, so there is no need to worry. But just to put your mind at ease, we’re here to dispel the myths and give you the low-down on zinc in denture adhesive, what it does, and whether there are any risks.
What Is Zinc, and Why Do Denture Adhesives Contain It?
Zinc is a mineral that you can find in protein-rich foods, such as shellfish, beef, nuts, chicken, along with a few dietary supplements. It’s essential for your health: it helps keep your skin and bones in good condition, amongst numerous other health benefits. Although zinc plays an integral part in a healthy diet, it also enhances adhesion in denture adhesives.
Potential Risks of Overdosing on Zinc
Just like with anything, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. The risk of taking in too much zinc can lead to
nerve damage
numbness
tingling sensations.
Excessive and prolonged zinc intake can cause some side effects, but we’re talking very large doses – not the kind you’re going to get from daily denture adhesive use when following the directions.
Advice to Denture Wearers
Denture adhesive contains a low quantity of zinc and is unlikely to cause you any harm. Just use denture adhesive as instructed to stay safe while keeping those dentures fixed in place. It’s a win-win. Here are our tips for denture wearers to avoid getting too much zinc:
Always follow the product instructions.
Don’t use more denture adhesive than recommended.
If you notice any zinc overdose symptoms, like numbness, stop using the product and talk to your doctor.
Track the amount of adhesive you use.
To give you an idea of how much denture adhesive to use, a 2.4-ounce tube for a person with a full set of dentures should last seven to eight weeks.
Is Fixodent Zinc Free?
Mostly, no, Fixodent uses zinc to help keep your dentures in place. The daily amount of zinc absorbed from Fixodent is approximately 2 mg, when used once per day as instructed. It’s less than the zinc you would find in most multivitamin supplements and the same as 170g of beef mince. The recommended dietary allowance of zinc is 8 mg and 11 mg per day for women and men, respectively. So even though Fixodent is not a zinc free denture adhesive, it’s safe.
However, if you’re still concerned about zinc, you can try Fixodent Plus True Feel, which is our zinc free adhesive.
There is no need to worry about the side effects due to zinc in your denture adhesive. As long as you follow the instructions and only use what you need, it’s perfectly safe to use denture adhesive. So make your life easier with Fixodent, whether you’re a partial or a full denture wearer, and enjoy all those juicy bites that life has to offer.
Tinnitus is a perplexing condition characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other ear noises when no external sound source is present. While it’s primarily considered an auditory issue, recent research has unveiled a surprising connection between tinnitus and oral health. At Montgomery Dental Loft, we’re dedicated to unraveling this intricate link and shedding light on how oral health can impact tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus
Before delving into the relationship between tinnitus and oral health, let’s first understand what tinnitus is. Tinnitus is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying issue. Various factors, including exposure to loud noises, earwax blockages, age-related hearing loss, and more can cause it. This persistent ringing or buzzing sound can significantly affect one’s quality of life.
The Oral Health Connection
The connection between oral health and tinnitus may not be immediately apparent, but it’s an increasing interest for dental and medical professionals. Here are some of how oral health can be linked to tinnitus:
1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ):
TMJ issues, which affect the jaw joint, can sometimes lead to tinnitus. The proximity of the temporomandibular joint to the ear can result in referred sounds, causing tinnitus-like symptoms.
2. Dental Issues and Tinnitus:
Dental problems such as teeth grinding (bruxism) and misaligned teeth can pressure the jaw and the auditory system, potentially contributing to tinnitus.
3. Ototoxic Medications:
Some medications for dental issues can have side effects, including tinnitus. Dental professionals need to be aware of the medications they prescribe and their potential auditory effects.
4. Stress and Anxiety:
Stress and anxiety are common culprits in oral health issues and tinnitus. Stress-related dental conditions, like teeth grinding and jaw clenching, can indirectly lead to tinnitus.
5. Poor Blood Flow:
Oral health issues, especially gum disease, can affect blood flow in the head and neck region. Reduced blood flow to the ears can lead to tinnitus in some cases.
Seeking Help and Relief
If you are experiencing tinnitus and suspect it may be related to your oral health, consulting with a dentist or medical professional is crucial. A thorough examination can help identify any dental or oral health issues contributing to your tinnitus.
In many cases, addressing the underlying oral health problem can relieve tinnitus. Treatment options may include dental appliances to correct teeth misalignment, stress management techniques, or medications that don’t exacerbate tinnitus.
At Montgomery Dental Loft, we understand the significance of this connection and are committed to providing comprehensive care to address oral health issues that may be linked to tinnitus. If you’re dealing with tinnitus or have concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team for guidance and assistance in improving your overall well-being.
Dysgeusia, is “one of those pregnancy things” your mother of doctor hasn’t warned you about. Dysgeusia is a change in your sense of taste likely caused by pregnancy hormones. It may cause you to hate a food that you normally love, or enjoy foods you normally dislike. Sometimes it can cause a sour or metallic taste in your mouth, even if you’re not eating anything.
How do I get rid of this metallic taste?
If your dysgeusia is caused by your pregnancy, try these remedies:
Practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing. Remember to brush your tongue along with your teeth, and regularly use mouthwash.
You can try to prevent that metallic taste before meals by rinsing your mouth with a combination of ½ teaspoon of salt and a ½ teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water.
Banish that metallic taste with acids such as citrus juices like lemonade, or foods marinated in vinegar.
You may be able to prevent that metallic taste with acids such as citrus juices like lemonade, or foods marinated in vinegar.
Eat what you can. Don’t feel bad if you have to avoid certain foods.
Change your prenatal vitamin. Some cause metal mouth more than others.
Above all, don’t worry. You won’t hate foods you used to love forever. Dysgeusia is most common during the first trimester. As your hormones begin to settle down in the second trimester, your taste buds should return to normal.
When it comes to maintaining optimal dental health, most of us focus on brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. However, what often gets overlooked is the significant role our diet plays in the health of our teeth and gums.
Indeed, food choices can profoundly impact oral health, influencing everything from tooth decay to gum disease. In this article, we delve into the intricate relationship between diet and dental health, exploring how what you eat can either support or undermine the well-being of your teeth and gums.
The Role of Nutrition in Dental Health
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Just like the rest of your body, your teeth and gums require essential nutrients to function properly and ward off infections.
A balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups provides the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients necessary for strong teeth and gums.
Conversely, a diet high in sugars, acids, and processed foods can weaken tooth enamel, increase the risk of cavities, and contribute to gum disease.
Understanding the Impact of Sugary Foods
Sugary foods and beverages are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to dental health. When you consume sugary foods, bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugars and produce acids as a byproduct. These acids can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay over time.
Additionally, sticky or chewy sugary foods can cling to the surfaces of your teeth, providing an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and multiply. Limiting your intake of sugary snacks and drinks and opting for healthier alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products can help protect your teeth from decay.
The Acidic Challenge: Citrus Fruits and Beyond
While citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, they can also be highly acidic, which can wear down tooth enamel over time. Similarly, other acidic foods and beverages, such as tomatoes, vinegar, and carbonated drinks, can contribute to enamel erosion and increase the risk of cavities.
While you don’t have to eliminate acidic foods from your diet entirely, it’s essential to consume them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward to help neutralize acids and protect your teeth.
The Importance of Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium and phosphorus are two minerals that play a crucial role in maintaining strong teeth and bones. Calcium helps to strengthen tooth enamel, while phosphorus works with calcium to rebuild and remineralize teeth. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, such as dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, can help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Including these foods in your diet can help counteract the effects of acids and sugars, reducing the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
The Power of Crunch: Fibrous Foods and Oral Health
Fibrous foods like apples, carrots, and celery are not only nutritious but also beneficial for dental health. Chewing fibrous foods stimulates saliva production, which helps to neutralize acids, wash away food particles, and remineralize tooth enamel.
Additionally, the fibrous texture of these foods can help scrub away plaque and debris from the surfaces of your teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Adding more fibrous foods to your diet can contribute to better oral hygiene and overall dental health.
The Dangers of Starchy Foods
Starchy foods like bread, crackers, chips, and pasta may seem harmless, but they can pose a threat to your dental health. When starchy foods break down in your mouth, they turn into sugars, which can fuel bacterial growth and lead to tooth decay.
Additionally, starchy foods tend to stick to the surfaces of your teeth, providing a breeding ground for bacteria and increasing the risk of cavities. While you don’t have to eliminate starchy foods from your diet entirely, it’s essential to consume them in moderation and practice good oral hygiene habits to minimize their impact on your dental health.
Hydration and Oral Health: The Role of Water
Proper hydration is essential for overall health, including dental health. Drinking water helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria, dilute acids in the mouth, and stimulate saliva production, all of which contribute to better oral hygiene.
Additionally, fluoride, a mineral found in many tap water sources, helps to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. By staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water throughout the day, you can help keep your mouth clean and healthy.
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups
While a healthy diet plays a significant role in maintaining dental health, it’s essential to remember that regular dental check-ups are also crucial for preventing and detecting oral health issues. A dentist can assess the condition of your teeth and gums, provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup, and offer personalized advice on maintaining optimal dental hygiene. By combining a nutritious diet with regular dental care, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.
In conclusion, the impact of your diet on dental health cannot be overstated. What you eat directly affects the health of your teeth and gums, with sugary, acidic, and starchy foods posing the greatest threats. By choosing a balanced diet rich in nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and fiber and limiting your intake of sugary and acidic foods, you can support your dental health and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Remember to stay hydrated, practice good oral hygiene habits, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to ensure a healthy smile for years to come.
Do you think you have a cavity? According to the CDC, over 90% of adults in the USA have had a cavity at some point in their lives.
Cavities are caused by plaque build-up on your teeth. Things that increase the likelihood of cavities are excess sugar, smoking, drinking alcohol, dry mouth, and improper brushing or flossing.
Most cavities can be easily treated. However, there are serious risks of tooth decay in untreated cases, including things like abscesses in the mouth or even gum disease.
Keep reading this guide to learn about the 6 warning signs of tooth decay.
1) Toothache
Toothaches are typically the biggest red flag when it comes to cavities. The pain caused by a toothache may consist of pressure when you eat or it may consist of sudden and painful ache.
Short answer? If you have a toothache make sure you seek treatment to find out the cause.
2) Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is also one of the most common signs of a cavity. Dental sensitivity typically occurs when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.
Likewise, sweet and sugary food and drinks may also cause pain or aches in your teeth.
If you notice that your teeth have become sensitive to temperature or sweets, you may very well have a cavity or other dental issue.
3) Teeth Staining
Notice any teeth staining? Unfortunately, stains on the teeth may also signify a cavity.
These stains may show up as white spots, but can be gray, brown, or even black as the cavity worsens. You may also notice redness in your mouth from dental inflammation.
4) Hole in Your Tooth
A hole in your tooth will usually occur in the later stages of untreated cavities. Most of the time you will be able to feel any holes in your teeth with your tongue.
You also may be able to visually notice them when brushing or flossing your teeth.
If you notice a hole in your tooth, see your dentist ASAP.
5) Bad Breath or Taste in Mouth
Sometimes, tooth decay will cause you to have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. Bacteria that are lodged between the infected tooth is usually the culprit.
These symptoms can be unpleasant to yourself and others. While it does not mean that you 100% have a cavity, it’s important to rule out the possibility.
6) Facial Swelling
Facial swelling is a less commonly known symptom of tooth decay but is possible. A tooth abscess caused by a cavity is usually to blame in this case.
So, if you notice one side of your face seems puffy and swollen, it’s important to find out the underlying cause.
Signs of Tooth Decay
Those were the 6 warning signs of tooth decay. If you’re wondering, “Do I have a cavity?” it’s important to be aware of any of these tooth decay symptoms and book a dental appointment as soon as you can.
Are you looking for a quality dentist who specializes in all types of dentistry in Temecula or Riverside, California? Dr. Parul Mehta & Associates are here to help!
White teeth are a highly desirable feature that everyone wants to improve their looks. While teeth start out white when they erupt in the mouth, they can gradually start to turn yellow over time. This discoloration process takes years, and it is caused by a variety of factors. Yellow teeth generally are not a sign of a serious medical problem, but it is still hard to feel fully confident about your smile when they are discolored. These are the seven most common causes of yellow teeth and how to avoid them.
Teeth Grinding
Enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth that protects it from decaying. While tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it can start to thin out over the years. One of the most common reasons for thin enamel is grinding the teeth. Once the enamel starts to disappear, the tooth's dentin will be exposed. This dark yellow layer of the tooth provides structure and protects the nerves. The best way to avoid grinding teeth is by visiting us at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa to get a custom mouth guard to wear at night.
Drinking Dark Liquids
There is a good chance that your favorite beverages are causing your teeth to turn yellow. Red wine, coffee and tea all contain a substance called tannins. This natural substance is so strong that is often used in the production of ink, so it is easy to see how it can quickly stain your teeth. Since beverages coat the entire mouth, the tannins can stay on your teeth long after you have finished your drink. The best way to prevent discolouration is by rinsing your mouth out with water after finishing your dark beverage. Brushing immediately after you are done drinking can damage the teeth.
Eating Sugary Foods
Sugar is absolutely one of the worst things you can put in your body. In addition to being a highly-addictive substance that ruins your health, sugar also completely destroys your teeth. Sugar causes a breeding ground of bacteria when it gets trapped in the mouth. This bacteria discolours and rots the teeth over time. Since sugar is so dangerous, it is best to completely avoid sugary foods and drinks. If this cannot be done, then brush your teeth one hour after consuming large amounts of sugar.
Smoking
Smoking is a terrible habit that can absolutely ruin your health. In addition to destroying your lungs and heart, smoking will also lead to yellow teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes damage the teeth when you inhale. This damage eventually leads to yellow or dark brown teeth over time. Getting whitening treatments at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa can help hide the problem, but it is best to just give up the cigarettes to improve your oral health and overall health.
Taking Certain Medication
The medicine you take on a daily basis to improve your health may be damaging your teeth. Several different antibiotics are known to cause teeth discolouration. You may also notice your teeth turning yellow after taking certain antihistamines or blood pressure medications for a long period of time. Since these medications help you live a better life, it is hard to avoid the unwanted side effect of yellow teeth.
Poor Dental Hygiene
The most obvious and common reason for yellow teeth is poor dental hygiene. The teeth need to be properly cleaned at least twice a day to avoid dangerous plaque buildup. Once plaque start to accumulate on the teeth, it will not take very long for them to start turning yellow. The best way to avoid plaque buildup is by brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash on a regular basis. If you have a serious case of plaque buildup, then you will need to visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa to get your teeth professionally cleaned.
Aging and Genetics
Unfortunately, teeth just naturally start to turn more yellow as you get older. This is caused by the loss of enamel, which gives the teeth a yellow tint as the dentin becomes more exposed. For some individuals it is just their genes.
Some people are born with thinner enamel than others. This makes it much harder to keep your teeth pearly white, but regularly using whitening products can help slow down the yellowing process.
A sore throat is a painful but common affliction that everyone suffers from on occasion. It may be the first sign of a cold, the result of strained vocal cords or a symptom of a more serious condition such as strep throat. As miserable as a sore throat can make you feel, in many cases symptoms clear up quickly and without medical treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of a Sore Throat?
Symptoms of a sore throat include pain, scratchiness, dry throat, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, swollen neck or jaw glands and swollen or inflamed tonsils. You may also have a fever, chills, cough, runny nose, sneezing, headache, muscle and joint aches, nausea and vomiting.
What Causes a Sore Throat?
Most sore throats are the result of viral infections, often related to the common cold or flu. Bacterial infections can also lead to sore throats. Some of the more common ones include strep throat, tonsillitis, whooping cough and diphtheria.
Additional factors that can cause a sore throat include allergies, acid reflux, environmental irritants, dry air and strained vocal cords. Occasionally a more serious condition, such as a tumor or HIV, can cause a sore throat.
Treatment & Prevention of Sore Throat
Home remedies are often the most effective treatment method for a sore throat. Try gargling with warm salt water periodically through the day. Make sure you drink plenty of liquids, and use throat lozenges and cough drops to relieve soreness and irritation.
A humidifier is often helpful. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants are beneficial at providing relief as well. If your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, you’ll need to treat it with antibiotics.
There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing a sore throat in the future. Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with warm water and soap, cough or sneeze into a tissue or your sleeve and do not share food or utensils with others who are sick.
Sometimes we experience mouth pain and we ignore it thinking its from a minor reason, but sometimes when we ignore mouth pain, it means we are ignoring major oral issues. If your pain persists for a long period you should consult your doctor. Here are some mouth diseases that can cause pain:
1. Mouth ulcers
One reason for mouth pain can mouth ulcers, a condition caused by ill-fitting dentures, fractured teeth, or fillings. The symptoms include burning mouth, facial pain, and mandibular pain. If the pain persists for more than 3 weeks it should be discussed with your doctor. Usually ulcers related to these traumas resolve within a week after removing the cause. You can use anti-inflammatory and anesthetic throat spray for temporary relief. A good mouth wash should be used to maintain oral hygiene, you can also use our home remedies.
2. Abscessed Tooth
Another painful cause of dental pain is an abscessed tooth, an infection in your tooth. If your tooth pain is keeping you awake at night it can be due to an abscess which is more than just a toothache. Those with weak immune systems often get them. The middle part of an abscess is painful when touched. You should not push your infected abscess as it forces the infection deeper into tissues. The pain can be avoided temporarily with painkillers or natural remedies, like chewing a whole clove or using a used tea bag. This condition cannot be treated with painkillers and you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Avoid very hot or cold food and drinks. A root canal is the usual recommended treatment.
3. Oral candidiasis (Thrush)
This is a fungal infection of the oral mucosa caused by poor dental health, local trauma, diabetes, severe anemia, malnutrition, deficiency of iron, folate and vitamin B12, immuno-suppression, smoking, or drug use. It causes pain when eating and drinking and alters the sense of taste. Consult your doctor regarding the pain and its possible cause.
4. Painful tongue
A sore tongue can be caused by oral thrush or anemia. If you are feeling pain on your tongue without having bitten or burnt your tongue, its recommended to see your doctor. If you wear dentures clean them as often as you would clean your original teeth. Dentures should be brushed before soaking them to remove food particles. Its important to maintain good oral hygiene.
5. Gum Gingivitis or sore gums
Painful gums may be due to inflammation of gums known as gingivitis. There are several causes including hormonal changes during pregnancy. Its important to take care of your gums and keep them healthy. You can massage your gums with your finger tip. If the pain persists consult your doctor and should treat it accordingly. Pain in gums is also caused by localized sores.
Pain in the throat can be usually felt in the case of throat infection or injury. This can cause pain while swallowing and yawning. It is common to have pain when yawning due to inflammation of tissues in your throat.
Most of the causes of pain experienced while yawning are not serious. They can be due to the common cold or flu. In very rare cases the pain while yawning can be due to life-threatening medical conditions like throat cancer or epiglottitis. Here in this article, we discuss some of the common reasons why your throat hurts when you yawn.
Causes Of Throat Pain
A dry throat can be a common reason behind a hurting throat. It can cause irritation and will give you a scratchy feeling while swallowing, talking, or yawning. You will get a dry throat when your membranes do not produce enough mucus to keep the throat lining moist.
There can be many factors that can lead to throat dryness. It includes infections, allergies, smoking, dehydration, breathing dry air, and sleeping with your mouth open.
Many types of viral infections that cause the common cold, flu, and Covid-19 can cause pain in the throat. These viral infections can cause inflammation in your throat and can cause pain while swallowing and yawning.
When air, food, water, or saliva comes in contact with these inflamed regions you will feel pain. Most of the throat infections that affect us are caused by viral infections.
A bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes can cause an infection in the throat called strep throat. It causes inflammation in the throat and can cause pain while swallowing or yawning. Strep throat is a highly contagious infection. It is a leading cause of sore throat in children and adults.
Injuries to the throat can cause pain. Swallowing hard and sharp food items like chips can cause bruises on the back of your throat. The injured part may hurt when yawning or swallowing, as the food particles and saliva irritate the sore area.
Mononucleosis is another cause of throat pain. It is also called mono and it is a contagious disease. It is mainly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, and it can be also affected by other viruses. This virus mainly spread through saliva. This condition is mostly found in teenagers and young adults, especially college students. This condition can cause sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Swollen tonsils can be another cause of pain in the throat that can make yawning or swallowing food and water painful. This condition which causes inflammation of the tonsils is referred to as Tonsillitis. Tonsils are the two oval-shaped pads of tissue that you can see at the back of the throat.
Inflamed tonsils and sore throat make it difficult to swallow food, water, and saliva. Tonsillitis can also cause fever and headache. Most tonsillitis cases are caused by a viral infection, but bacteria can also cause tonsillitis. Surgery to remove tonsils are performed when it is frequent.
Candidiasis in the mouth and throat can cause difficulties while yawning and swallowing food. This is an infection that is caused by a yeast called Candida. This yeast is normally found in some parts of the body and does not cause any problems. But sometimes it can multiply and cause infection in the mouth, throat, or esophagus. This condition in the mouth is also called oral thrush.
Inflammation of the esophagus or food pipe is another reason behind the pain in the throat during yawning. This medical condition is called esophagitis. This condition is painful and you will find difficulty swallowing food.
It can also cause chest pain and thus can be a difficult condition. Some common causes of this condition are acid reflux, infection, oral medicines, and allergies. Without proper medical care, this condition can cause the lining of the food pipe to be damaged and can interfere with its function.
Esophagitis also can cause complications such as narrowing of the food pipe, weight loss, and dehydration.
Epiglottitis can be another reason that causes pain during yawning. It is a condition that causes the epiglottis to swell. Epiglottis is a small lid-like structure made of cartilage that covers the windpipe. The swelling of the epiglottis can block the flow of air into the lungs and it can be a deadly condition.
This condition can be caused by infections, burns from hot liquids, and injuries to the throat. Epiglottitis is a serious condition that can happen to anyone at any age. This condition requires urgent medical care or else it will cause deadly complications.
Sometimes throat cancer can be behind the pain in the throat while yawning. This is cancer that affects your throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx). There are different kinds of throat cancer depending on the part of the throat where cancer originated. The common symptoms of throat cancer include cough, changes to your voice, difficulty in swallowing, ear pain, sore throat, and weight loss.
The pain you feel when yawning depends upon the type of condition you are suffering from. Infections like the common cold and tonsilitis can cause pain on both sides of your throat. This pain can be rough, scratchy, or itchy. Pain from scratch or injury causes pain in a particular spot. Tumors can cause pain in a particular side of your throat.
Remedies For Throat Pain While Yawning
There are different treatments available for throat pain. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Fungal infections like oral thrush can be treated by antifungal medications like fluconazole or clotrimazole.
There are some home remedies for mild conditions. Gargling with warm salt water regularly throughout the day can be effective in treating sore throats. Drinking plenty of warm water helps you to soothe the sore tissue. Avoid smoking or other polluting environments. Medicated lozenges with zinc can help in treating sore throat.
Conclusion
It is common to feel throat pain while yawning. The same pain might be felt while talking or swallowing food and water.
Most of the time the pain will be due to mild conditions like the common cold and rarely it can be due to serious conditions like epiglottis or throat cancer that require proper medical attention. You can follow simple home remedies for mild conditions and if it still persists, contact a doctor.
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in the overall health and development of our teeth and bones. Adequate calcium intake is crucial, particularly during childhood and adolescence when the teeth and jaws are still forming. However, calcium deficiency remains a significant public health concern, with far-reaching consequences for dental health.
In this comprehensive article, we will explore the importance of calcium for dental health, the signs and symptoms of calcium deficiency, the potential causes, and effective strategies for preventing and addressing this common nutritional issue.
The Role of Calcium in Dental Health
Calcium is a key structural component of the teeth and is essential for the proper formation and mineralization of tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of the teeth. Enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body and is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite, a calcium-based mineral.
In addition to its role in enamel development, calcium also contributes to the strength and integrity of the underlying dentin, the layer of tooth structure beneath the enamel. Furthermore, calcium is vital for the health and development of the jawbones, which provide the foundation for the teeth.
Beyond the structural components of the teeth, calcium also plays a crucial role in various dental and oral health processes, including:
1. Tooth Mineralization and Remineralization:
Calcium, along with other minerals like phosphate, is essential for the constant process of tooth mineralization and remineralization, which helps maintain the strength and integrity of tooth enamel.
2. Saliva Production and pH Regulation:
Calcium contributes to the production of saliva, which helps neutralize acidic pH levels in the mouth and wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay and other oral health issues.
3. Oral Soft Tissue Health:
Adequate calcium intake is also important for the health and integrity of the gums, tongue, and other soft tissues in the oral cavity, helping to prevent conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis.
Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency and Dental Health Implications
Calcium deficiency can have several adverse effects on dental health, manifesting in various ways:
1. Enamel Hypoplasia:
Insufficient calcium during tooth development can lead to the formation of thin, poorly mineralized tooth enamel, known as enamel hypoplasia. This condition increases the risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, and discoloration.
2. Increased Tooth Decay and Cavities:
Calcium deficiency can compromise the strength and resilience of tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to erosion and the development of cavities (dental caries).
3. Periodontal Disease:
Calcium plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Deficiency can contribute to the development of gingivitis and periodontitis, leading to gum inflammation, tissue damage, and eventual tooth loss.
4. Delayed Tooth Eruption:
Insufficient calcium during childhood can delay the eruption (emergence) of permanent teeth, potentially impacting the proper alignment and development of the bite.
5. Dental Fractures and Tooth Loss:
Weakened tooth enamel and underlying dentin due to calcium deficiency can make teeth more prone to fractures, chips, and eventual loss.
6. Malocclusion and Jaw Development Issues:
Calcium is essential for the proper growth and development of the jawbones. Deficiency during childhood can lead to problems with jaw alignment, bite issues, and the improper positioning of teeth (malocclusion).
Causes of Calcium Deficiency and Dental Health Implications
Calcium deficiency can arise from various factors, and understanding the potential causes is crucial for addressing the issue and mitigating its impact on dental health:
1. Inadequate Dietary Intake:
The primary cause of calcium deficiency is a diet that lacks sufficient calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods. This is particularly concerning in populations with limited access to these nutrient-dense options.
2. Malabsorption and Gastrointestinal Conditions:
Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, or lactose intolerance, can impair the body’s ability to absorb and utilize calcium, leading to deficiency.
3. Medications and Supplements:
Some prescription medications, including certain antacids, diuretics, and corticosteroids, can interfere with calcium absorption or increase calcium excretion, contributing to deficiency.
4. Hormonal Imbalances:
Conditions that affect hormone regulation, such as thyroid disorders or menopause, can disrupt the body’s calcium homeostasis and lead to deficiency.
5. Genetic Factors:
Rare genetic disorders, such as familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia, can impair the body’s ability to regulate calcium levels, leading to deficiency.
6. Vitamin D Deficiency:
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and utilization. Deficiency in this vitamin can contribute to calcium deficiency and its associated dental health issues.
Preventing and Addressing Calcium Deficiency for Optimal Dental Health
To ensure optimal calcium levels and mitigate the negative impacts of deficiency on dental health, a comprehensive approach is necessary. This includes the following strategies:
1. Promote Adequate Dietary Calcium Intake:
Encourage the consumption of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt), leafy green vegetables, fortified plant-based milk alternatives, and canned fish with bones. Ensure that children and adolescents, in particular, are getting sufficient calcium to support the development of strong, healthy teeth and jaws.
2. Supplement with Calcium as Needed:
If dietary intake alone is insufficient, healthcare providers may recommend calcium supplements, particularly for individuals with malabsorption conditions or other risk factors for deficiency.
3. Optimize Vitamin D Status:
Ensure adequate vitamin D intake, either through sun exposure, dietary sources, or supplementation, as this nutrient is essential for the proper absorption and utilization of calcium.
4. Regular Dental Checkups and Preventive Care:
Encourage regular dental visits for professional cleanings, examinations, and early detection and treatment of any dental health issues related to calcium deficiency.
5. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Practices:
Promote the importance of daily brushing, flossing, and the use of fluoride-containing products to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent the development of cavities and other dental problems associated with calcium deficiency.
6. Address Underlying Medical Conditions:
If a medical condition is contributing to calcium deficiency, work with healthcare providers to manage the underlying issue and ensure optimal calcium levels.
7. Educate the Public and Healthcare Professionals:
Increase awareness about the importance of calcium for dental health and the potential consequences of deficiency. This can help promote early detection, timely interventions, and the implementation of preventive measures.
In cases where calcium deficiency has already led to dental health problems, a multifaceted approach is necessary to address the existing issues and prevent further complications:
1. Restorative Dental Treatments:
Depending on the severity of the dental problems, healthcare providers may recommend treatments such as fillings, crowns, or other restorative procedures to address issues like cavities, enamel defects, and tooth fractures.
2. Periodontal Therapy:
For individuals with calcium deficiency-related periodontal disease, a combination of professional cleanings, adjunctive therapies (such as antibiotic treatment), and improved oral hygiene practices may be necessary to control the condition and prevent tooth loss.
3. Orthodontic Interventions:
In cases where calcium deficiency has contributed to malocclusion or jaw development issues, orthodontic treatment, such as braces or other appliances, may be necessary to correct the alignment and improve overall dental function.
4. Nutritional Counseling and Supplementation:
Alongside any necessary dental treatments, healthcare providers may recommend a comprehensive nutritional assessment and counseling to address the underlying calcium deficiency, including the use of calcium and vitamin D supplements as needed.
5. Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance:
Regular dental check-ups and continued efforts to maintain optimal calcium and vitamin D levels are crucial for preventing the recurrence of dental health problems related to calcium deficiency.
Conclusion
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. Calcium deficiency can have far-reaching consequences for dental health, leading to a range of issues, including enamel hypoplasia, increased risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and problems with jaw development and tooth eruption.
By promoting adequate calcium intake, optimizing vitamin D status, and implementing comprehensive preventive and restorative dental care, individuals and healthcare providers can work together to mitigate the impact of calcium deficiency on dental health. Ongoing education, regular check-ups, and a proactive approach to addressing any underlying nutritional or medical issues are key to ensuring the long-term health and well-being of our teeth and oral cavity.
